1 February 2024 – The Thailand Polo Association (TPA) holds a press conference as it marks its 20th year with steadfast enthusiasm, guiding the development of the potential of Thai polo athletes to fulfil the vision of Mr. Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the association's founder, and the elevation of Thailand's polo to international standards. Additionally, it actively advocates for the inclusion of polo in the upcoming 33rd SEA Games hosted by Thailand, and the preparations for the polo tournaments in the 2024 season. The event is graced by the presence of Mr. Kanoksakdi Bhinsaeng, the President of the Thailand Polo Association, alongside Thai national polo athletes and celebrity polo enthusiasts, including Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, Apichet Srivaddhanaprabha, Ploy Bhinsaeng, Chonnarlite Thomongkhon, Nattapong Pratumlee, Thanasin Chuawangkham, Satid Wongkraso, Sonia Couling, Sririta Jensen Narongdej, Anusorn Maneeted, and Nawat Kulrattanarak, held at the Pullman Bangkok King Power Hotel on Soi Rangnam.
During the event, an exhibition zone accentuates the two-decade journey of the Thailand Polo Association, recounting its noteworthy milestones and notable recognitions. Furthermore, in honour of its 20th anniversary, the association proudly showcases the prestigious trophies garnered from four tournaments: the All Asia Cup, the Ambassador Cup, the International Ladies’ Polo Tournament, and the Thailand Polo Championship.
Mr. Kanoksakdi Bhinsaeng, the President of the Thailand Polo Association, discloses that over the past 20 years, the association has been promoting Thai polo on the global stage and has hosted prominent international tournaments and major polo events, significantly contributing to the heightened recognition of Thai polo on a broader scale. Presently, there are many Thais and expats with an interest in polo. Athletes under the association follow structured training schedules with coaches providing guidance. This encompasses the planning of tournaments, both domestic and international. In the past, the association has sent athletes, including Mr. Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha and Mr. Apichet Srivaddhanaprabha, to participate in tournaments in the UK, renowned as one of the world’s leading polo hubs. Additionally, the association also intends to organise a youth camp for young individuals keen on polo.
The association's current objective is to ardently advocate for the inclusion of polo in the 33rd SEA Games in 2025, with Thailand as the host country. The association is thoroughly prepared in all aspects, encompassing tournament venues, horses, personnel, and international-standard facilities. Presently, the association is in the process of seeking approval from the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, with the expectation of receiving the result shortly. The ultimate aspiration is to secure a gold medal for Thailand. Historically, the Thai polo team secured silver and bronze medals in 2017 and 2007 respectively.
Mr. Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, a Thai national polo athlete, states that in preparation for the 2024 tournament organised by the Thailand Polo Association, a total of four tournaments are scheduled. The first event is the All Asia Cup, taking place from 4th – 10th February. This year, teams from five countries, including Brunei, China, the Philippines, Mongolia, and Thailand, will participate, with Thailand set to compete in this tournament as well. Anticipation is high for such competitive tournament, as all teams are believed to have undergone intensive training.
In addition, three other significant tournaments are scheduled: The Ambassador Cup and the International Ladies’ Polo Tournament in March, followed by the Thailand Polo Championship in April. The latter serves as a platform for new athletes to develop their potential and prepare for the future transition to the Thai national polo team.
The 2024 polo tournaments held by the Thailand Polo Association are sponsored by Singha Corporation Co. Ltd, King Power Group, Siam Commercial Bank PCL., Plan B Media PCL., Charoen Pohphand Group Co., Ltd. Visit Facebook / Instagram: Thailand Polo Association for updated news and details about polo tournaments including tournament LIVE broadcast.
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